Sports from the eyes of Bay Area native Samuel Lam

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High-fives after free throws: What’s the point?

I’ve seen high-fives for years in basketball games. After a made free throw, teammates will high-five the shooter before returning to their spots. And it’s fine really. It’s a good encouragement from teammates. My problem is sometimes when they are sought out instead of being received.

Like the above Vine, seeking for high-fives can be such a habit that you’re going for the imaginary ones.

It’s kind of cocky to ask your teammates for a high-five. It’s a little boastful about making one free throw. Now if a teammate gave you one, that’s different. And also, what about during crunch time? There is no time for the high-five when the intensity is so high.

I never sought high-fives when I make my free throws and I would imagine I would not want any if I made it to the NBA. Just let me shoot my free throws and don’t tough my hand.

But that’s just me. Some people need it. Some people seek it. And some people, like me, want no part of it. I care for my team, but don’t distract my flow.